Only two points separate the Nerazzurri and the Partenopei in the Serie A standings and the two sides go head to head at San Siro on Sunday.

Striker Cassano is set to return from a two-game ban for insulting a referee and Ranocchia is certain that the former Real Madrid man can make the difference.

"Who would I choose between Cavani and Cassano? Cassano, of course. We have really missed him, he is a phenomenon," the defender is quoted as saying by the Corriere dello Sport.

"There are not many around with his technique and vision. He can invent something out of nothing. I know what he has achieved in his career, and I can say he is capable of doing even better.

Ranocchia went on to say that he was determined to help his side regain their top form and win the Serie A title this season.

"We came off a string of victories and there was a dip in our form. Some thought we relaxed after the win [against Juventus], but that wasn't the case. It’s normal to regret missing some opportunities.

"I would not be content with a Champions League spot, as I want to win the Scudetto. My mentality is to always win and finish ahead of everyone. Now that we’re up there, it is only right that we target the title."